Bollywood’s backstage buzz turned into a full-blown internet storm recently when news broke that Deepika Padukone requested an 8-hour workday for her upcoming film Spirit with Sandeep Reddy Vanga. While some fans hailed her for setting healthy work-life boundaries, others clutched their pearls and cried “unprofessionalism.” Now, actor and new mom Yuvika Chaudhary has weighed in and her response is as fierce as it is heartfelt.
In an exclusive chat with Pinkvilla’s Hindi Rush, Yuvika didn’t mince words as she threw her full support behind Deepika. And let’s just say, it wasn’t your typical diplomatic industry response.
“Maa Banna Aasaan Nahi Hai!” – Yuvika Gets Real About Motherhood and Work
Having recently embraced motherhood herself, Yuvika knows firsthand the emotional and physical rollercoaster new moms ride every day. Reflecting on Deepika’s much-discussed work-hour request, she said, “Ek toh maa banna aasan nahi hai aur maa banne ke baad kaam karna toh bilkul bhi aasan nahi hai.”
She explained that Deepika’s demand stems from love for her craft, not from diva behavior. “She’s coming back to work because she loves it. But that doesn’t mean she shouldn’t ask for what she needs,” she pointed out, adding that after years of giving her all to the industry, Deepika deserves respect.
Yuvika made it clear that Deepika’s ask isn’t about throwing starry tantrums, it’s about basic human decency. “Itna bhi aapko ruthless nahi hona chahiye,” she said firmly. The Om Shanti Om actress stressed how the postpartum phase is deeply personal and physically challenging, and instead of nitpicking her schedule, the industry should offer support.
Calling motherhood a “different journey,” Yuvika added, “If someone has given so many years to the industry, of course they can say ‘main itna hi kaam karungi’.”
Contrary to those making it sound like Deepika is walking off set at lunch, Yuvika clarified that this is a temporary ask, not a permanent work condition. “And I’m sure it’s not forever. It’s a give and take,” she noted. It’s just about easing into the new phase while still being committed to work.
Yuvika also reminded the critics that actors don’t have the luxury to clock out early. “When we sign a film, we give our everything. There’s no ‘leaving early’ in this job, especially for newcomers,” she said, acknowledging the grind that every actor faces when they’re starting out.
Yuvika’s Own Mom-Life
Speaking of work-life balance, Yuvika herself is living the juggle game like a pro. Asked if she has any “new mom clauses” while working, she laughed and said there’s just one golden rule, her daughter, Ekleen, goes everywhere with her.
“Where I go, she goes. Until she starts school, she’s going to be my little co-star on every shoot,” Yuvika said with pride. So, while some moms carry coffee to set, Yuvika carries diapers and baby food because the show must go on, but so must the parenting.
Final Take: Respect, Not Ridicule
In a world where male actors are often applauded for taking “dad breaks” or demanding personal space, Deepika’s request shouldn’t be controversial, it should be normalized. Yuvika’s bold support serves as a reminder that motherhood and career aren’t enemies they’re partners doing a complicated dance.
